Legend of Shelbyville to be discussed at library program

James H. Pierce is buried in Forest Hill Cemetery next to his wife and parents. | Kristiaan Rawlings

Although billed as a “legend of Shelbyville” for next week’s program at the Shelby County Public Library, James H. Pierce’s influences go beyond city limits, even state lines.

Pierce, who was raised in tiny Freedom, Ind. and whose parents later moved to Shelbyville, became an Indiana University football All-American, drill instructor in World War I, pilot in World War II, and, most famously, played Tarzan on both radio and in film. His eventual wife, Joan, played Jane. Her father, Edgar Burroughs, created the Tarzan character, penning several books.

“His family has been active in the (Shelbyville) community for over 100 years,” local historian David Craig, who will lead the Genealogy program, said. Pierce’s father was mayor of Shelbyville during World War II and his sister, Joanna, married Wray Orem in 1933.

“Even without his Shelbyville ties, he’s just interesting,” Donna Dennison, director of the Shelby County Public Library Genealogy and Local History department, said.

On Wednesday, June 28, at 7 p.m., Craig will share photos of and more information on Pierce, as well as present audio recordings from the Tarzan radio show and play the 1927 “Tarzan and the Golden Lion.” Although Pierce had hoped to see his own film later in life, a copy could not be found. The film was later rediscovered in France and Craig will show it in Carnegie East Wing Meeting Room B.

Despite being filmed years before modern techniques, Dennison said the film leaves much to appreciate.

“It’s amazing when you think that there were no camera tricks,” she said. “He had to do all of that stuff.” That stuff included co-starring with a less-than-tame lion for the production.

“Pierce was a little nervous about working with it,” Craig said.

Today, you can find the Pierce’s graves, which include James H., Joan, and his parents, in Forest Hill Cemetery. Look for the stones that say “Tarzan” and “Jane.” And, for one night only, you will find these legends of Shelbyville at the public library during Wednesday evening’s program.